Traveling to Makkah is a journey of faith and devotion for millions of Muslims around the world. Every year, pilgrims and visitors from across Saudi Arabia — including Jeddah and Riyadh — make their way to the holy city to perform Umrah or Hajj, or simply to visit Masjid al-Haram.
Understanding how to travel efficiently, safely, and comfortably is crucial, especially for first-time visitors. Whether you’re planning to go from Jeddah to Makkah or Riyadh to Makkah, this guide by Harmain Ziarah will help you learn about distances, routes, travel times, transportation options, and the best way to make your journey stress-free.
🕋 The Spiritual Importance of Traveling to Makkah
Makkah is the heart of Islam — the holiest city where Muslims from all corners of the world gather for Umrah and Hajj. Every journey to Makkah, no matter the starting point, holds spiritual significance.
For many pilgrims arriving in Saudi Arabia, the journey begins either in Jeddah, which is closest to Makkah, or in Riyadh, the capital city of the Kingdom. These two cities serve as major transport hubs for domestic and international travelers heading toward Makkah.
That’s where Harmain Ziarah steps in — offering reliable, comfortable, and affordable taxi and travel services that make the journey smoother and more peaceful.
🚗 Jeddah to Makkah Distance and Travel Options
The route between Jeddah and Makkah is one of the busiest in Saudi Arabia, used daily by pilgrims, residents, and tourists.
- Distance: 80 kilometers (50 miles)
- Travel Time: 1 to 1.5 hours by car
- Main Route: Makkah–Jeddah Expressway (Highway 40)
This route is well-maintained and direct, ensuring a quick and comfortable journey. Whether you are arriving from King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) or staying in Jeddah city, Makkah is just a short drive away.
🚕 Best Way to Travel from Jeddah to Makkah
While there are buses and trains available, the most convenient and time-efficient option is to hire a private taxi.
✅ Benefits of Choosing a Taxi from Jeddah to Makkah
- Door-to-Door Pickup: No need to find additional transport — the driver picks you up from your hotel or the airport and drops you directly at your destination in Makkah.
- Comfort and Privacy: Air-conditioned, clean vehicles for families, individuals, and groups.
- Flexible Schedule: Travel at your preferred time — no waiting for public transport.
- Fixed Rates: Transparent prices with no hidden charges.
- Professional Drivers: Experienced, English- and Urdu-speaking drivers familiar with all routes.
With Harmain Ziarah, you can easily book a Jeddah to Makkah taxi online or via WhatsApp. Our 24/7 service ensures you’re covered at all times — even for late-night arrivals or early morning Umrah trips.
✈️ Jeddah Airport to Makkah Transfers
If you’re arriving at King Abdulaziz International Airport, your journey to Makkah begins right after landing. Since Makkah is approximately 95 kilometers from the airport, it takes around 1.5 hours to reach by car.
Harmain Ziarah offers airport-to-hotel transfers, making your travel easy and worry-free. Our driver will meet you at the airport terminal, assist with your luggage, and drive you directly to your accommodation near Masjid al-Haram.
This service is especially convenient for families, elderly travelers, and first-time visitors performing Umrah.
🚄 Alternative Options – Haramain High-Speed Train
For travelers who prefer high-speed travel, the Haramain High-Speed Train connects Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah efficiently.
- Travel Time: Around 40 minutes from Jeddah to Makkah
- Stations: Jeddah Sulaymaniyah Station → Makkah Station
- Facilities: Modern seating, Wi-Fi, refreshments
However, note that the train requires you to travel to and from the station using additional transport. For most pilgrims, a private taxi remains the easiest and most flexible option.
🚘 Riyadh to Makkah Distance and Travel Options
Traveling from Riyadh to Makkah is a longer journey but equally important for domestic pilgrims and residents.
- Distance: 870 kilometers (540 miles)
- Travel Time: 8 to 10 hours by car
- Main Route: Highway 40 (Riyadh → Taif → Makkah)
This route connects the central region of Saudi Arabia to the western province, passing through stunning desert landscapes and well-maintained highways.
🚖 Traveling from Riyadh to Makkah by Taxi
For those who prefer comfort, flexibility, and privacy, a private taxi service from Riyadh to Makkah is an excellent choice.
✅ Advantages of Riyadh to Makkah Taxi Service
- Custom Travel Plan: Choose your departure time and rest stops.
- Direct Route: No need to change vehicles or wait for scheduled transport.
- Comfortable Ride: Air-conditioned vehicles suitable for long-distance travel.
- Safe and Reliable: Professional drivers ensure safety throughout the journey.
- Flexible Options: Choose from sedan, SUV, or van depending on your group size.
With Harmain Ziarah, you can enjoy a stress-free journey with full comfort. Our drivers are trained to handle long routes, ensuring you reach Makkah safely and on time.
🚌 Riyadh to Makkah by Bus
Travelers can also opt for a SAPTCO (Saudi Public Transport Company) bus service, which runs multiple times daily between Riyadh and Makkah.
- Travel Time: 10–12 hours
- Fare: Around SAR 100–150 per person
- Facilities: Air conditioning and basic seating comfort
While buses are cheaper, they are less convenient for families or travelers with luggage.
🚄 Riyadh to Makkah by Train
Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh–Makkah train via the Haramain High-Speed Railway (through Jeddah) is one of the fastest and most comfortable ways to travel between the two cities.
- Travel Time: 4.5 to 5 hours
- Route: Riyadh → Jeddah → Makkah
- Benefits: Fast, modern, and air-conditioned trains
However, you’ll still need a taxi transfer from the Makkah train station to your hotel or the Haram, making a private taxi a more flexible alternative for full travel coverage.
🌆 Exploring Saudi Arabia with Harmain Ziarah
At Harmain Ziarah, we specialize in transportation and pilgrimage tours across Saudi Arabia. Whether you’re traveling from Jeddah to Makkah, Riyadh to Makkah, or exploring Ziyarat places in Madinah, we provide seamless travel solutions designed for comfort, reliability, and peace of mind.
🚖 Our Core Services Include:
- Jeddah to Makkah Taxi
- Riyadh to Makkah Taxi
- Jeddah to Madinah Transfers
- Airport Transfers (JED & MED)
- Ziyarat Tours in Makkah and Madinah
- Long-Distance City Travel
- Private Family Transport
Our drivers are professional, punctual, and courteous — ensuring your trip is safe and smooth from start to finish.
🚙 Vehicle Options for Every Traveler
Harmain Ziarah offers a wide range of vehicles to suit your comfort and group size:
| Vehicle Type | Capacity | Ideal For |
| Sedan | 1–3 people | Solo travelers or couples |
| SUV | 4–6 people | Families or small groups |
| Van / Minibus | 7–12 people | Large groups |
| Luxury Car | 1–4 people | VIP & executive travel |
All vehicles are air-conditioned, clean, and regularly maintained, providing maximum comfort even during long journeys like Riyadh to Makkah.
🕋 Why Choose Harmain Ziarah for Your Travel in Saudi Arabia
Traveling across Saudi Arabia can be challenging without local experience — but with Harmain Ziarah, your journey becomes effortless. We specialize in serving Umrah pilgrims, families, and international visitors, offering:
- Experienced and polite drivers
- 24/7 service availability
- Transparent and fixed prices
- Door-to-door pickup and drop-off
- Multi-language support (English, Urdu, Arabic)
- Safe, reliable, and punctual service
We understand the importance of time during your pilgrimage, and our goal is to ensure you reach Masjid al-Haram comfortably, without delays or complications.
🌍 Popular Routes Covered by Harmain Ziarah
| Route | Distance | Travel Time | Mode of Travel |
| Jeddah → Makkah | 80 km | 1–1.5 hours | Taxi / Private Car |
| Jeddah Airport → Makkah | 95 km | 1.5 hours | Airport Transfer |
| Riyadh → Makkah | 870 km | 8–10 hours | Taxi / Car |
| Riyadh → Jeddah → Makkah | 880 km | 9–10 hours | Taxi / Train |
| Madinah → Makkah | 450 km | 5–6 hours | Taxi / Train |
Our services cover all major pilgrimage routes, ensuring a smooth and spiritually fulfilling travel experience.